A decade ago, two women in their 20s – a London fashion photographer and the daughter of a master weaver from the Mekong region of Lao Peoples Democratic Republic – came together to form the cooperative Ock Pop Tok, which means “East Meets West.” Featuring the exquisite silk and cotton weavings for which the country is so well-known, this 21st century cooperative is as likely to sell wall hangings inspired by Mark Rothko as the traditional skirts woven with Laotian motifs.

In just over 10 years, Ock Pop Tok has grown from a one-room weaving studio for local weavers to an internationally-recognized heritage destination, gallery, retreat center and women’s weaving collaborative for over 400 artisans in three provinces and seven villages. This year, the seasoned co-founders will bring to the Market a selection of intricately-designed shawls, skirts and runners that represent the artistry of the Tai Kadai weaving style. They will be accompanied by first-time Market artist, Ms Note.